LIFE in the fast lane in Sydney can be extremely busy and at times stressful, so we could all do with a weekend getaway from time to time. Are you in need of an escape, a perfect weekend trip that’s just a short hope, skip and a jump from Sydney?

Maybe one of these Sydney weekend getaway ideas is your answer.

1. Blue Mountains National Park

A two-hour drive from Sydney’s CBD, the Blue Mountains is beautiful at any time of year. Go bushwalking, marvel at the iconic Three Sisters, chill out at Wentworth Falls (pictured), explore the underground rivers and stunning limestone formations in the Jenolan Caves or wander through Mt Wilson’s colourful exotic gardens.

2. Jervis Bay

Just under three hours south of Sydney, Jervis Bay is your classic cliche of “hidden treasure” written all over it. Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a few days with a weekend trip to Jervis bay and relax at one of the area’s many beautiful beaches. A favourite with travellers is Hyams Beach, which is famous for having the whitest sand in the world.

3. The Hunter Valley

Only two and a half hours north west of the capital, visitors from across the world travel to the Hunter Valley to visit some of Australia’s exquisite wineries, sample gourmet food and marvel and the areas rolling green hills. Wineries started popping up here in 1820, and since then many famous labels started here, including Wyndham Estate, Tyrrell’s and Lindeman’s.

4. Berrima, Southern Highlands

Take some time out at the charming village of Berrima in the Southern Highlands, only an hour and a half southwest of Sydney. Established during the 1830s, you can still see historic buildings such as the Courthouse. Take a peaceful stroll along the river or relax at quaint cafes during the weekend. The romantic town is widely recognised as the best preserved Georgian village in Australia.

5. Terrigal

Drive for one and a half hours north of Sydney and you’ll come across Terrigal, a seaside town offering beautiful coastline views, a lively café culture and plenty of activities. A weekend trip from Sydney gives you enough time to go surfing, walk along the esplanade, dive into pristine ocean and explore the wreck of the Ex-HMAS Adelaide and spend a peaceful afternoon fishing.

Brianna Piazza is an Australian television reporter and part-time travel blogger. Originally from Melbourne, she's currently living in Cairns where she works for WIN News and spends her weekends exploring the outdoors Far North Queensland.